Falcon Lodge, Aviemore

Falcon Lodge sits on the edge of Aviemore, close enough to walk into the village in about fifteen minutes and far enough out that the back garden stays quiet. It is a whole house rather than a room in a shared building, which is usually the format that works best when a dog is coming too: no corridors to negotiate, no lift, and a door that opens straight onto grass.

The garden is the feature dog owners keep coming back to. It is enclosed and generously sized, so a dog can be let out without a lead, and guests travelling with dogs have described it as the part of the property that made the stay easy. Beyond the gate, the Cairngorms footpath network starts more or less at the door, and the walk into Aviemore itself follows quiet ground rather than a main road. Families who came to cycle and walk found the house worked as a base for both.

The property's booking listing publishes no pet fee, weight limit or maximum number of dogs, so those are worth confirming with the property before you book, particularly if you are bringing more than one dog.

Inside, the house is roomy and the sofas get consistent praise after long days out. It is not flawless. The electric shower is underpowered, one double bed was described as too firm, and the converted front bedroom off the garage has drawn complaints about damp carpet and lifting wallpaper. At least one party found stained bedding across the rooms and a storage heater that would not come on. None of that touches the dog side of the stay, but it is the pattern in the less enthusiastic reviews and worth knowing before you book.

Best suited to a family or a couple with a dog who want an enclosed garden, easy access to Speyside walking and cycling, and a village within walking distance rather than a drive.